HMRC excise tracking to go online

HM Revenue and Customs is to switch from paper to a new online Excise Movement and Control System (EMCS) in January.

The department said the new system has been designed to reduce excise fraud.

Before the paper system is halted on the 31 December, traders will be able to try out dispatching goods on EMCS.

To use it, traders will have to register online at HMRC, and they will then be provided with a user ID and activation pin code. Businesses will also be able to also access the system using the department's free online service or by using their own commercial software.

Using EMCS will be compulsory for all movements of duty suspended excise goods in the EU and in the UK, except for intra-UK movements of energy products and certain intra-UK movements of alcohol and tobacco, said HMRC.

"The new system will improve the efficiency of document processing and control of the movement of excise duty suspension goods throughout the EU and in the UK. EMCS will reduce the scope for excise fraud as it will allow member states, traders and HMRC to monitor movements online in real time," said Kerrie Spendiff, deputy director excise and customs, policy and processes at HMRC.

"The important thing is that excise traders enrol early to avoid delays and so that everything is in place as soon as possible. I urge businesses that have not yet registered and enrolled for EMCS to do so now."